Lara Pulver reprises Gypsy role

Lara Pulver and Peter Davison will join Olivier Award winner Imelda Staunton in Chichester Festival Theatre’s acclaimed production of the musical Gypsy when it transfers to the West End in March.

Marking Pulver’s first return to the London stage since her performance in 2007’s Parade at the Donmar Warehouse, the Olivier Award nominated actress will reprise her role as Louise in the production.

Described by The Telegraph’s Dominic Cavendish as a “suddenly ravishing, teasingly confident Louise”, Pulver will bring her acclaimed performance to the Savoy Theatre following performances in productions including Honk! at the National Theatre and High Society at the Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre. On screen she is known for her roles in the Benedict Cumberbatch-led BBC adaptation of Sherlock and spy drama Spooks.

A newcomer to the cast, Doctor Who star Davison will play Herbie in the show. Best known as the fifth incarnation of the travelling Time Lord, the actor’s stage credits include West End productions of Legally Blonde The Musical and Spamalot. Davison is, however, best known for his television appearances, which alongside the BBC sci-fi series include All Creatures Great And Small and New Tricks.

Directed by Jonathan Kent, the musical tale of an ambitious showbiz mother who treks across America with her daughters in search of success with their homespun vaudeville act will transfer to the Savoy Theatre from 28 March.

The first London production of the great Broadway musical in 40 years, Kent’s take on the classic will see Staunton return to the role of Momma Rose following her recent acclaimed performance at Chichester Festival Theatre.

Featuring a book by Arthur Laurents with music and lyrics by Jule Styne and Stephen Sondheim, Gypsy will open at the Savoy Theatre following the current run of Dirty Rotten Scoundrels The Musical, which closes on 7 March.